What is Project Hawk Eye Surveillance Technology?

Project Hawk Eye is a surveillance and security initiative launched in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir, for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. The arrangement uses drones, CCTV cameras, facial recognition systems, elevated observation posts, and sniper teams for route security and monitoring.

Project Hawk Eye for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra

Project Hawk Eye was launched on 25–26 June 2026 for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. The Amarnath cave shrine is located in the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir, and the pilgrimage route includes the Pahalgam and Baltal axes. The government has declared the routes from Jammu to the cave shrine, including the Pahalgam and Baltal routes, as no-fly zones. Such restrictions are used in India for security-sensitive events and pilgrimage routes.

Surveillance and Security Components

The project uses a multi-layered security and surveillance grid for round-the-clock monitoring. Five drones are deployed at key locations for aerial surveillance and real-time observation. The deployment also includes 28 Machan Morchas, which are elevated observation posts, and 22 specially trained sniper teams at designated points along the route. These units are part of physical security arrangements used in high-footfall and high-risk zones. In addition, 416 high-resolution CCTV cameras and Facial Recognition System infrastructure have been installed at critical locations. CCTV, or closed-circuit television, is widely used for continuous monitoring in public security operations.

HawkEye 360 and Maritime Surveillance

HawkEye 360 is a United States-based technology company known for radio-frequency geospatial intelligence. In 2025, the United States approved the sale of HawkEye 360 technology to India, and the approval was reaffirmed in June 2026. The package is valued at $131 million and includes software, training, and support. The system is intended to strengthen maritime domain awareness and detect vessels that disable their tracking systems, often called dark ships.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is an annual Hindu pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Facial Recognition System technology is used for identifying individuals by analysing facial features through digital imaging.
• Drone surveillance is commonly used for aerial monitoring in security, disaster response, and border management.
• Maritime domain awareness refers to the effective understanding of activities at sea, including vessel movement and maritime threats.

Security Terms in Current Affairs

Machan Morcha is an elevated observation post used for surveillance in difficult terrain. A no-fly zone is an area where aircraft and drones are restricted or prohibited for security reasons.